Intimacy Coordination

Intimate scenes need extra care to ensure everyone feels safe, respected, and comfortable. Depending on your script, SCA may require an Intimacy Coordinator (IC) to be part of your production.

When filming intimate content, SCA may require the use of a certified Intimacy Coordinator (IC) or another qualified professional. Proof of certification or professional experience may be requested.

Use the “Do I Need an Intimacy Professional?” guide (Info/Equipment/Forms tab on SCA Central) to see if your project requires one. Final decisions are made case by case.

Situations that require or may require an Intimacy Coordinator

Examples include (but are not limited to):

• Implied nudity (not shown on screen)

• Undressing, especially if characters undress each other

• Simulated orgasm

• Intense kissing or makeout scenes

• Lap dances or strip teases

• Simulated medical exams without nudity

• Any of the above portrayed as non-consensual

• Any of the above with intoxicated characters

• Any of the above with more than two characters

• Power imbalances (actor–director, older–younger, etc.) where a neutral third party adds safety

Situations that may benefit from an Intimacy Coordinator

These may not always require one, but students are encouraged to consider support if unsure:

• Any kissing

• Touching/embracing/cuddling, or club dancing/grinding

• Bathing suits, lingerie, or revealing costuming

• Simulated birth, miscarriage, or abortion

• Sexually charged dialogue (dirty talk, flirtation, etc.)

• Queer and/or gender-expansive relationships

• Other potentially sensitive or triggering topics